Speaking at the formal opening ceremony, GRA’s Commissioner General GRA Yankuba Darboe expressed delight over hosting the meeting, saying the two countries collaboration is not only a necessity — it is a strategic imperative for the prosperity of our two countries and the broader west African region.
“I am particularly honoured that we are hosting this follow-up meeting here in The Gambia,” he said, while expressing deep appreciation to the minister for Finance and Economic Affairs for the official opening of the meeting and for the Ministry’s continued support and guidance in the bilateral and regional customs cooperation efforts.
He cited that the experts’ meeting marked a critical step in the implementation journey of the resolutions and recommendations that were adopted at the 2024 bilateral meeting held in Dakar. “That meeting set the tone for enhanced collaboration between our two institutions, with the shared objective of improving customs cooperation, facilitating legitimate trade, securing our borders, and fostering economic integration between our two countries,” he reminded.
“As neighbouring nations with deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, it is incumbent upon us to ensure that our customs administrations work closely, efficiently, and transparently. The progress we make through technical discussions such as this will directly impact trade facilitation along our shared borders, reduce bottlenecks, and support the competitiveness of our economies.”
CG Darboe expressed optimism that the meeting was going to provide a valuable opportunity for “our technical teams and key stakeholders to thoroughly review the progress made since July 2024. It is also a time to candidly discuss the challenges encountered, identify areas that require renewed effort, and propose practical solutions for the full and timely implementation of our commitments.”
“I would like to commend the working groups and experts from both administrations who have been instrumental in pushing forward the priority actions agreed in Dakar. I urge you all to maintain this momentum and to use this platform to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation.
The GRA boss also highlighted the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders — from trade and transport to the private sector — in these conversations. “Sustainable solutions to trade and customs challenges require a multi-stakeholder approach, and I am encouraged by the presence of officials from the Ministry of Trade, the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Transport Unit, and representatives of the clearing and forwarding community here today.”
“Let me reaffirm the commitment of the Gambia Revenue Authority to regional integration, customs modernization, and international best practices. Our collaboration with Senegal Customs is not only a necessity — it is a strategic imperative for the prosperity of our two countries and the broader West African region.”
“I wish you fruitful deliberations over the course of this meeting. Let us all be guided by the spirit of partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility as we strive to build a more seamless, secure, and efficient trade environment for our peoples,” CG Darboe concluded.
